Vince Leigh’s Single Review: Summertime by Asim I.I.

Vince Leigh is the former drummer of Pseudo Echo, John Farham and Tina Arena

The introductory verse of Asim I.I.’s new track, Summertime captures a time and a place with clarity and focus, and vividness: ‘I gotta call up my mamma Summertime’s creeping up on us / I gotta invite her over so we can start the grill hot dogs hamburgers and steaks is the meal / Hustlers it’s a new feel. But the lyric is just one well-crafted aspect of this new track.

From the streets of Brooklyn emerges Asim I.I., the multi-talented hip-hop artist, set to slay them with his latest single, Summertime, featuring Keemanee King Chakra and Keisha Martin. This upbeat track marries the classic stylings of 90s-era hip-hop with a contagious beat, resonant hooks, and a spirit of carefree abandon. Asim, inspired by the legends of hip-hop, imbues his music with a touch of optimism, resulting in a celebratory and joyful sound. His journey began with the group Malignant and led to collaborations with Kris Kartel (Kartel Route) before joining forces with producer Angelicvoicesmusic, where he dedicated his life to Jesus Christ and continued to write songs on unusual topics.

The single Summertime draws inspiration from the Fresh Prince and Jazzy Jeff, produced by Angelicvoices, and features the vocal talents of Keisha Martin, a perfect match. The visual journey of Summertime is brought to life through a video filmed with long-time friend Kris Kartel. The irresistible rhythm takes the viewer on a trip to a summer paradise, with Asim’s insightful observations ranging from the personal—allusions to family and friends—to more universal themes of youth and society. The chorus, a catchy celebration of the magic of summer, encapsulates the season’s heat, freedom, and bustling street scenes.

Asim I.I. has firmly established himself as a musician and songwriter of considerable diversity and talent with the release of Summertime, which is guaranteed to create waves all across the world.